While TCL is best known for selling surprisingly good TVs at eye-catchingly low prices, the brand seems to be on a mission to earn the same kind of reputation for soundbars too. The latest step in this soundbar journey sees TCL launching no less than five different sound bar models for 2023, split across two categories within which even the most premium model will only set you back $279.99.
The most premium models in TCL’s new soundbar range are dubbed the Q Class. There are two of these: The 3.1-channel Q6310, and the 5.1-channel Q6510. Both of these models support ‘Dolby Audio’ and DTS Virtual:X playback, and both feature identical physical connectivity comprising an ARC-capable HDMI port, a USB port, a 3.5mm auxiliary audio input, and an optical audio input. Both Q Class models also carry auto room calibration systems powered by TCL’s AI Sonic system.
The Q6510, though, delivers 430W of power into a four-component system comprising the main soundbar, a wireless subwoofer with a 6.5-inch driver, and a pair of wireless rears, while the Q6310 feeds 350W into just the soundbar and subwoofer, without the rears.
In an ideal world the more premium model of the two might have included an HDMI loop through – but then even the Q6510 only costs $279.99, so you can forgive it for cutting a ‘perfect world’ corner or two.
The step-down Q6310 is even more affordable at $229.99 – though actually I’d say that by giving you a full surround sound experience for only $50 more, the Q6510 looks to be the better all-round value of the two.
The three other models in TCL’s new soundbar range belong to a so-called S Class. These models are less powerful and slightly less premium in their design than the Q Class models, but still seem to offer plenty of bang for not much buck.
The most well-specified S Class model is the 5.1-channel S4510. This costs $229.99 for Dolby Audio and DTS Virtual:X decoding and 300W of total power feeding into a four-component system comprising the main soundbar, a subwoofer (this time with a smaller 5.5-inch driver), and two rear speakers.
The mid-range S Class model, the $179.99 S4310, carries 240W of total power, includes a dedicated centre speaker in the main sound bar that you don’t get with the entry-level S Class model, and retains the subwoofer to deliver a 3.1-channel configuration.
The cheapest of TCL’s new soundbars, finally, is the $149.99 S Class S4210. This sees the power drop to 200W, while the channel count drops to 2.1. In other words, the main bar carries two channels, while the same S Class subwoofer is on hand to deliver the ‘.1’ bass line.
All three S Class soundbars carry HDMI inputs with ARC support, Bluetooth, optical audio inputs, powered USB ports, IR extender ports, 3.5mm Aux ports, and 3.5mm AUX VA ports, and all three S Class models also feature voice assistant control options.
Both the Q Class and S Class soundbars are available now from multiple electronics retailers, while more detailed product information can be found on TCL’s website.
—
Related reading
JBL Launches New Ultra-Powerful 15-Channel Flagship Soundbar
LG Unveils 2023 Soundbar Range
Read the full article here
